Fifteen ASCA members receive Smart Cities and Suburbs Program funding

ASCA congratulates our 15 members and partners who have received almost $10.6 million of funding between them under the Federal Government’sSmart Cities and Suburbs Program.

The successful ASCA members include 11 local governments, three R&D partners and one business (see below) – representing 29 percent of the 52 recipients announcedon Friday.

“We’re delighted to see so many ASCA members among the grant recipients, acknowledging that our members and partners are at the forefront when it comes to creating smart communities,” ASCA CEO Laurie Patton said.

“ASCA is leading the way with the support of the Federal Government. We are keen to cement this relationship with the government and provide a strategic framework for greater collaboration between our members, businesses and Australian communities.”

Mr Patton said these grants were indicative of the growing support in government circles for organisations deploying smart technologies that would positively transform our communities.

“We congratulate the government on this important initiative and express our members’ sincere thanks to Assistant Minister for Cities and Digital Transformation Angus Taylor and his department for their support for these projects, each of which will contribute to improving the lives of the people in those communities,” he said.

A total of 52 projects across Australia will receive funding totalling $28.5 million under Round One of Smart Cities and Suburbs Program. More funding announcements are expected in Round Two early next year.

“ASCA believes that Australia is well placed to be a thought leader in this emerging field which provides new opportunities to improve our lives and enhance our social and economic development. We recognise the importance of putting people first – viewing things from a local perspective while also drawing on international experience.

“While there's already a good deal of energy at local government level it is pleasing to see Canberra and the states and territories coming on board. ASCA is committed to fostering informed debate and greater collaboration across all sectors involved in this exciting area of social policy,” Mr Patton said.

Round Two - 2018

Another $22 million in funding will be allocated in Round Two early next year. ASCA encourages members who did not enter Round One or were not successful to consider making a submission. We will convene an online workshop to help prospective applicants.

“We’re keen to work with our members to increase their prospects of securing funding. We’ll draw on the experiences of those who were successful in Round One and aim to build on our collective expertise," Mr Patton said.